Joshua 9
BSB1 Now when news of this reached all the kings west of the Jordan—those in the hill country, the foothills, and all along the coast of the Great Sea toward Lebanon (the Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites)— 2 they came together to wage war against Joshua and Israel. 3 But the people of Gibeon, having heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and Ai, 4 acted deceptively and set out as envoys, carrying on their donkeys worn-out sacks and old wineskins, cracked and mended. 5 They put worn, patched sandals on their feet and threadbare clothing on their bodies, and their whole supply of bread was dry and moldy. 6 They went to Joshua in the camp at Gilgal and said to him and the men of Israel, “We have come from a distant land; please make a treaty with us." 7 But the men of Israel said to the Hivites, “Perhaps you dwell near us. How can we make a treaty with you?" 8 “We are your servants,” they said to Joshua. Then Joshua asked them, “Who are you and where have you come from?" 9 “Your servants have come from a very distant land,” they replied, “because of the fame of the LORD your God. For we have heard the reports about Him: all that He did in Egypt, 10 and all that He did to the two kings of the Amorites beyond the Jordan—Sihon king of Heshbon and Og king of Bashan, who reigned in Ashtaroth. 11 So the elders and inhabitants of our land told us, ‘Take provisions for your journey; go to meet them and say to them: We are your servants. Please make a treaty with us.’ 12 This bread of ours was warm when we packed it at home on the day we left to come to you. But take a look, it is now dry and moldy. 13 These wineskins were new when we filled them, but look, they are cracked. And these clothes and sandals are worn out from our very long journey." 14 Then the men of Israel sampled their provisions, but did not seek the counsel of the LORD. 15 And Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the congregation swore an oath to them. 16 Three days after they had made the treaty with the Gibeonites, the Israelites learned that they were neighbors, living among them. 17 So the Israelites set out and on the third day arrived at their cities—Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kiriath-jearim. 18 But the Israelites did not attack them, because the leaders of the congregation had sworn an oath to them by the LORD, the God of Israel. And the whole congregation grumbled against the leaders. 19 All the leaders answered, “We have sworn an oath to them by the LORD, the God of Israel, and now we cannot touch them. 20 This is how we will treat them: We will let them live, so that no wrath will fall on us because of the oath we swore to them." 21 They continued, “Let them live, but let them be woodcutters and water carriers for the whole congregation.” So the leaders kept their promise. 22 Then Joshua summoned the Gibeonites and said, “Why did you deceive us by telling us you live far away from us, when in fact you live among us? 23 Now therefore you are under a curse and will perpetually serve as woodcutters and water carriers for the house of my God." 24 The Gibeonites answered, “Your servants were told clearly that the LORD your God had commanded His servant Moses to give you all the land and wipe out all its inhabitants before you. So we greatly feared for our lives because of you, and that is why we have done this. 25 Now we are in your hands. Do to us whatever seems good and right to you." 26 So Joshua did this and delivered them from the hands of the Israelites, and they did not kill the Gibeonites. 27 On that day he made them woodcutters and water carriers, as they are to this day for the congregation of the LORD and for the altar at the place He would choose.
Study Notes — Joshua 9
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Joshua 9
- Themes from Joshua 9
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Joshua 9
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Joshua 9 begins with the kings of the Amorites forming an alliance to fight against the Israelites, but the Gibeonites, aware of Israel's military prowess, decide to deceive them by pretending to be from a distant land. The Israelites, without inquiring of God, enter into a covenant with the Gibeonites, only to later discover their deception. Despite this, Joshua and the leaders of Israel choose to honor their oath, making the Gibeonites woodcutters and water carriers for the community. This chapter highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance in decision-making and the value of keeping one's word, even in difficult circumstances, as seen in Joshua 9:14-27.
Context for the Chapter
Joshua chapter 9 is part of the conquest narrative in the book of Joshua, which details the Israelites' entry into and takeover of the Promised Land. This chapter follows the battles against Jericho and Ai, placing it within the broader story of Israel's fulfillment of God's promise to give them the land. The events in this chapter are crucial as they show how the Israelites interact with the existing inhabitants of the land, setting a precedent for future relationships and the expansion of God's covenant community.
Heart Application
This chapter teaches us the importance of seeking God's guidance in all our decisions and the value of integrity and faithfulness. Just as the Israelites had to navigate the consequences of their hasty oath, we must consider the long-term implications of our actions and decisions, ensuring they align with God's will and character. By reflecting on the Gibeonites' deception and the Israelites' response, we are reminded to approach life's challenges with discernment, humility, and a commitment to doing what is right in God's eyes.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Joshua chapter 9 tells the story of how the Gibeonites tricked the Israelites into making a peace treaty with them. Even though the Israelites later found out they had been deceived, they still kept their promise. This shows how important it is to keep our word, even when things don't go as planned. In Joshua 9:15, we see Joshua deciding to keep the covenant, which teaches us about being faithful and honest. The chapter also reminds us to always ask for God's guidance before making big decisions, as seen in Joshua 9:14.
Voices from the Church
“The deceit of the Gibeonites was very gross, but the faithfulness of God's people to their promise was greater.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The Lord, by suffering the Gibeonites to impose upon the Israelites, tried their faith, that they might learn to trust more firmly in his providence.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Gibeonites' Deception (9:1-5) — The Gibeonites, aware of the Israelites' military victories, devise a plan to deceive them by pretending to be from a distant land, seeking a peace treaty.
- The Israelites' Covenant with the Gibeonites (9:6-15) — The Israelites, without inquiring of the Lord, agree to the Gibeonites' proposal and make a covenant with them, only to later discover their deception.
- The Discovery of Deception (9:16-21) — Three days after making the covenant, the Israelites discover the Gibeonites' deception. Despite this, they choose to honor their oath due to their promise before the Lord.
- The Gibeonites' Role in Israel (9:22-27) — The Gibeonites are made woodcutters and water carriers for the Israelites, serving as a reminder of their deception and the Israelites' faithfulness to their covenant.
- Conclusion: Faithfulness and Integrity — The chapter concludes with the Israelites upholding their end of the covenant, demonstrating the importance of faithfulness and integrity in all relationships, whether with God or with other people.
Core Doctrines
- Covenant Theology
- This chapter illustrates the concept of covenant, where two parties enter into a binding agreement. The Israelites' covenant with the Gibeonites, despite being made under false pretenses, is honored, showing the seriousness with which covenants were viewed.
- Providence
- The events in Joshua 9 demonstrate God's providence, as He allows the Gibeonites to deceive the Israelites, testing their faith and commitment to keeping their word.
- Faithfulness
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithfulness, as seen in the Israelites' decision to uphold their covenant with the Gibeonites, even after discovering their deception.
- Grace and Mercy
- The treatment of the Gibeonites by the Israelites, turning them into servants rather than destroying them, reflects principles of grace and mercy, foreshadowing the covenant of grace through Jesus Christ.
Lessons from Joshua 9
- The Importance of Seeking God's Guidance — This chapter teaches us to always seek God's guidance before making decisions, as seen in the Israelites' failure to do so, leading to their deception by the Gibeonites.
- Faithfulness and Integrity — The Israelites' decision to honor their covenant with the Gibeonites, despite the deception, highlights the importance of keeping one's word and acting with integrity in all situations.
- God's Providence — The events in Joshua 9 illustrate God's providence, showing how He works in and through all circumstances, including deception and challenging situations, to fulfill His purposes.
- Covenant Relationships — The chapter provides insight into covenant relationships, emphasizing the seriousness and binding nature of such agreements, whether between God and humanity or among people.
- Grace and Mercy — The treatment of the Gibeonites reflects principles of grace and mercy, demonstrating how God's character is one of compassion and forgiveness, even towards those who have acted deceitfully.
Themes from Joshua 9
- Deception and Honesty — The Gibeonites' deception and the Israelites' response serve as a backdrop to explore the themes of honesty, deception, and the consequences of dishonesty.
- Faithfulness and Covenant — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithfulness, particularly in the context of covenant relationships, where commitments are made and must be honored.
- God's Sovereignty — The events in Joshua 9 demonstrate God's sovereignty, showing how He is in control of all circumstances, including those involving deception and unexpected outcomes.
- Grace and Redemption — The story of the Gibeonites, who move from being enemies to servants of the Israelites, hints at themes of grace and redemption, foreshadowing the greater redemption through Jesus Christ.
- Community and Integration — The inclusion of the Gibeonites into the Israelite community, albeit in a servant role, speaks to the themes of community, integration, and the expansion of God's covenant people.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some situations in your life where you might be tempted to deceive others or act without seeking God's guidance?
- How does the concept of covenant, as seen in Joshua 9, apply to your relationship with God and with others?
- What does the Israelites' decision to honor their covenant with the Gibeonites teach you about faithfulness and integrity?
- In what ways can you apply the lesson of seeking God's guidance before making decisions, as highlighted in Joshua 9:14?
- How does the story of the Gibeonites and the Israelites encourage you to trust in God's providence, even when circumstances seem uncertain or challenging?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to the Gibeonites' Deception (9:1-5)
| 9:1 | The kings of the Amorites hear about the Israelites' victories and plan to attack them, but the Gibeonites decide on a different strategy. |
| 9:2 | The Gibeonites are aware of the Israelites' military power and decide to deceive them by pretending to be from a distant land. |
2. The Gibeonites' Preparation and Deception (9:3-5)
| 9:3 | The Gibeonites prepare old, worn-out items to make it seem like they have traveled from afar. |
| 9:4 | They load their donkeys with old, torn sacks and worn-out, patched wineskins, and put on old, patched sandals and worn, tattered clothes. |
3. The Israelites' Covenant with the Gibeonites (9:6-15)
| 9:6 | The Gibeonites come to the Israelite camp at Gilgal and ask for a treaty of peace, claiming to be from a distant land. |
| 9:14 | The Israelites sample their provisions but do not inquire of the Lord, leading them to make a covenant with the Gibeonites. |
4. The Discovery of Deception and Its Aftermath (9:16-27)
| 9:16 | Three days after making the covenant, the Israelites discover that the Gibeonites are actually from nearby cities. |
| 9:20 | The Israelites are angry but decide to let the Gibeonites live, making them woodcutters and water carriers for the community. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Gibeonites deceive the Israelites?
The Gibeonites deceived the Israelites because they were afraid of being destroyed, having heard about the Israelites' military victories, as mentioned in Joshua 9:1-5. They hoped to escape destruction by making a peace treaty.
What did the Israelites learn from their experience with the Gibeonites?
The Israelites learned the importance of seeking God's guidance before making decisions, as seen in Joshua 9:14. They also understood the value of honoring their commitments, even when made under false pretenses, demonstrating faithfulness and integrity.
How does the story of the Gibeonites relate to the broader biblical narrative?
The story of the Gibeonites is part of the conquest narrative, showing how the Israelites interacted with the inhabitants of the Promised Land. It foreshadows themes of grace, mercy, and the expansion of God's covenant community, which are fully realized in Jesus Christ.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Joshua 9:14 → Proverbs 3:5-6 | Both texts emphasize the importance of trusting in God's guidance and not relying solely on human understanding. |
| 2 | Joshua 9:15 → Psalm 15:4 | This psalm speaks about the importance of keeping one's word, even to one's own hurt, reflecting the Israelites' decision to honor their covenant with the Gibeonites. |
| 3 | Joshua 9:1 → Genesis 12:1-3 | Both passages involve God's promise to Abraham and his descendants, including the Israelites, to give them the land, highlighting God's sovereignty and faithfulness. |
| 4 | Joshua 9:20 → Matthew 5:33-37 | Jesus teaches about the importance of keeping one's word, reflecting the principle seen in the Israelites' decision to uphold their covenant with the Gibeonites. |
| 5 | Joshua 9:24 → Romans 11:25-32 | Paul discusses the relationship between Israel and the Gentiles, with the Gibeonites serving as an early example of Gentiles being incorporated into Israel, foreshadowing the inclusion of Gentiles in the church. |
| 6 | Joshua 9:3 → 2 Corinthians 4:1-2 | The Gibeonites' deception can be contrasted with the apostle Paul's commitment to honesty and integrity in his ministry, highlighting the importance of truthful living. |
| 7 | Joshua 9:14 → James 1:5-8 | Both texts emphasize the need for wisdom and discernment, with James encouraging believers to ask God for wisdom and the Israelites failing to do so, leading to their deception. |
| 8 | Joshua 9:15 → Hebrews 13:20-21 | The author of Hebrews encourages believers to be faithful and obedient, just as the Israelites were in keeping their covenant with the Gibeonites, reflecting God's character of faithfulness and mercy. |
| 9 | Joshua 9:1 → Ephesians 2:11-22 | The inclusion of the Gibeonites into the Israelite community can be seen as a type of the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ, where both are made one in the body of Christ. |
| 10 | Joshua 9:24 → Galatians 3:28-29 | Paul writes about the unity of all believers in Christ, regardless of their background, reflecting the principle of inclusion seen in the Gibeonites' integration into the Israelite community. |
Sermons on Joshua 9
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Through the Bible) Joshua 1-8 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the excitement and importance of walking after the Spirit. He references the story of Joshua encountering a man with a drawn sword near Jeric |
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Studies in Joshua 03 - Conquering the Land by Alden Gannett | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the preparation and conquest of Joshua as he leads the Israelites into the land of Canaan. The sermon begins by discussing Joshua's encounte |
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Joshua - Gibeon: Spiritual Warfare by Stephen Kaung | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of the children of Israel being deceived by the Gibeonites. The enemy sometimes tries to hinder our relationship with Christ by bui |
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A Covenant That Covers by William Carrol | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of making bad decisions and how they can become a part of our lives. He uses the analogy of being hewers of wood and drawers of w |
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Joshua (Part 7): Don't Let Failure Be Final by Richard Sipley | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the theme of failure and recovery using the story of Joshua in the book of Joshua chapter 9. The people of Gibeon deceive Joshua and the Israe |
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Week of Meetings 09 7 Facets of Love by James K. Boswell | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing our unity with Christ through his death, burial, and resurrection. He encourages the audience to be informed an |
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On Eagles' Wings Pt 319 by Don Courville | Don Courville discusses the theme of deception, drawing from the biblical account of Joshua and the Gibeonites to illustrate how easily one can be misled. He emphasizes the importa |
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Joshua 9:3 by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith emphasizes the dangers of forming ungodly alliances, warning that God has commanded His people not to make treaties with unbelievers. He explains that such alliances ca |
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The Goat by Harriet N. Cook | Harriet N. Cook delves into the significance of goats in the Bible, highlighting their various uses and symbolism in ancient times. From providing milk and cheese to being used for |
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Joshua 1 - 13 by John Nelson Darby | John Nelson Darby explores the themes of faith, obedience, and the spiritual journey of the Israelites as they prepare to cross the Jordan into Canaan. He emphasizes the importance |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Joshua 9
Matthew Henry's commentary on Joshua 9 focuses on the Gibeonites' cunning deception of the Israelites and the subsequent covenant made between them. Henry notes that the Gibeonites, though deceitful, were spared because of the Israelites' oath, demonstrating God's providence and the importance of keeping one's word. He also reflects on the spiritual lessons from this chapter, including the dangers of hasty decisions and the value of seeking divine guidance. Furthermore, Henry sees in the Gibeonites' story a shadow of the gospel, where those who were once enemies become friends and servants of God's people, highlighting the themes of grace, mercy, and redemption that are central to the Christian faith. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Gibeonites' Strategy
The Gibeonites' decision to deceive the Israelites by pretending to be from a distant land shows their cunning and desperation. This strategy, though deceptive, also reveals their awareness of Israel's military power and their desire to survive.
Israel's Lack of Inquiry
The Israelites' failure to inquire of the Lord before making a covenant with the Gibeonites is a significant oversight. It highlights the importance of seeking divine guidance in all matters, especially in decisions that affect the community and its relationships.
The Consequences of Deception
The deception by the Gibeonites and the Israelites' subsequent discovery of the truth lead to a complex situation. The Israelites must navigate the consequences of their oath, demonstrating the challenges that arise from hasty decisions and the importance of integrity in keeping one's word.